Red Tail Black Variatus (Xiphophorus variatus var.)

The Red Tail Black Variatus (Xiphophorus variatus var.) is a captive-bred color morph of the Variable Platy, a livebearer species native to eastern Mexico. This dramatic form is selectively bred for its deep black body and vivid red caudal fin, creating a high-contrast look that makes it popular in the hobby. Like all variatus platies, it is hardy, adaptable, and easy to care for.

Variatus platies in general are slightly more elongated and tolerant of cooler water than common platies (X. maculatus), making them suitable for unheated or lightly heated aquariums. The Red Tail Black Variatus displays the same hardy constitution and peaceful temperament characteristic of the species.

This fish is a livebearer and will produce fry readily in a mixed-sex aquarium. The fry are born free-swimming and fully formed, capable of accepting finely crushed flake food immediately. Parents and other adults may consume fry, so providing dense planting or a fry trap will improve survival rates.

Red Tail Black Variatus are peaceful community fish that mix well with a wide range of species including tetras, rasboras, gouramis, Corydoras, and other livebearers. Males may display mild chasing behavior toward females, so keeping more females than males (2:1 ratio) reduces stress.

Water Parameters: Variatus platies are highly adaptable: pH 7.0–8.0, temperature 18–26°C, GH 10–25. They tolerate a wide range of conditions including harder, alkaline water. Cool temperatures are well tolerated — they can be kept in unheated aquariums in mild climates.

Tank Setup: A 60-liter aquarium is sufficient for a small group. Provide dense planting or fine-leafed plants for fry refuge and shelter. Open swimming space is also appreciated. A mix of plants, open areas, and hiding spots creates an ideal environment.

Feeding: Omnivores that accept flake food, micro pellets, and small frozen or live foods. Include vegetable-based foods (spirulina flakes, blanched spinach) as part of a balanced diet. Feed twice daily in small amounts.

Tankmates: Excellent community fish. Compatible with tetras, rasboras, barbs, corydoras, small gouramis, and other peaceful livebearers. Avoid large, aggressive, or fin-nipping species. Keep 2 females per male to distribute breeding behavior.

Breeding: Livebearers that breed readily without intervention. Fry are born free-swimming. Remove adults or provide dense planting to protect fry. Fry accept finely crushed flake food from birth.